Undersigned organizations express our deep sorrow over the passing of Iuri Vazagashvili, who was found dead on January 20 on the grave of his son. According to media reports, confirmed by the Chief Prosecutor’s office, the death was caused by an explosion.

Iuri Vazagashvili had been demanding justice for his son Zurab Vazagashvili, who was killed by the police during a 2006 special operation – investigation of which is still underway.

Non-governmental organizations urge the Chief Prosecutor’s Office to promptly and objectively investigate Iuri Vazagashvili’s death. We believe that, due to high public interest, law enforcement bodies should update the society about the progress in investigation of Zurab Vazagashvili’s case as well.

We hope that cases of both Iuri and Zurab Vazagashvili will be investigated promptly and effectively. Undersigned organizations offer our condolences to the family and friends of late Iuri Vazagashvili.

International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED)

Transparency International (TI) Georgia

Article 42 of the Constitution

Civil Development Agency (CiDA)

Identoba

Liberal Academy – Tbilisi